CALENDAR

25.04.26 | 16.05.26 | 27.06.26 | 19.09.26 | 17.10.2026 | 14.11.26 | 12.12.26

Vienna Whirling Hub 2026

TQW / Tanzquartier Wien & Ziya Azazi (Dervish in Progress)   THE INTENTION Whirling Hub is a monthly space to learn, refresh, and deepen the art of whirling in a modern, accessible way. It is based on Dervish in Progress (DIP): a practice that connects body, emotion, and mind, and supports transformation through self-generated energy — with safety, technique, and inner depth.   Together with Tanzquartier Wien (TQW), the aim of this cooperation is to offer Vienna a steady meeting point: a place where people can enter the world of whirling, and where the whirling community can grow through continuity, shared practice, and cultural exchange.   DATES & SCHEDULE (SATURDAYS) 25 April, 16 May, 27 June, 19 September, 17 October, 14 November, 12 December Each Saturday: 10:30–13:30 and 14:30–18:30   Morning block (10:30–13:30) — Newcomers’ gateway This block is designed for newcomers: we introduce the world of whirling step by step — how it works, how it becomes possible, and how it can be practiced safely. The aim is that after these 3 hours, newcomers have already tried, felt, and started to manage the whirl, so they can join the afternoon session with confidence. Experienced whirlers are welcome in the morning as well, if they wish to refresh fundamentals.   Afternoon block (14:30–18:30) — Long community session A 4-hour long DIP session where newcomers and experienced participants practice together. Here we enter a longer journey: to deepen physically, emotionally, and mentally — and to integrate in community. This session supports:   - Individual transformation (body–emotion–mind calibration) - Deepening within oneself - Belonging and connection in the whirling community - A shared space to feel, reflect, and fine-tune our presence (spiritually, cognitively, and socio-culturally)   TICKETS Newcomers (full day):  €110 Two Together (full day):  €190 Experienced (full day):  €100 Experienced (afternoon only):  €70   LOCATION: Tanzquartier Wien (TQW), Vienna   INFO & BOOKING: www.tqw.at or dervishinprogress.com    CONTACT Whatsapp: +436605860660, Mail: dervishinprogress@gmail.com

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02.08.2025 - 08.08.2025

DIPTEP - Year 1 (Core Data)

6th Generation | Hosted in Agios Lavrentios (Pelion), near Volos, Greece   “Whirling is a journey where awareness expands. When the body, mind, and soul align, movement becomes meditation, and meditation transforms into evolution.”   With great excitement, we open the 6th year of DIPTEP — welcoming the 6th generation of the Teacher Education Program. In 2026, the Core Data (Year‑1) journey moves to Greece: to Agios Lavrentios, the mountain village near Volos where our retreats and masterclasses have been ripening in recent years, in the spirit of our encounters around Music Village and the wider Pelion landscape. Here, between gravity and altitude, tradition and research, we continue to refine whirling as a precise art of navigation — scientific in its mechanics, philosophical in its questions, and metaphysical in its depth.   In today’s fast-moving world, DIPTEP is designed to give a clear and structured understanding of whirling, covering both its physical mechanics and deeper experiential aspects. It goes beyond just movement, exploring how whirling can be an accessible and sustainable practice for both personal and professional development. To support this, DIPTEP introduces a unique terminology to explain key concepts and uses free-form whirling as a practical tool to build skill, confidence, and awareness.   Dervish in Progress (DIP): A Contemporary Approach to Whirling & Life   DIP is a multi-layered discipline—a contemporary approach to whirling, rooted in the ancient Sufi tradition. It fosters exploration, transformation, and self-mastery across physical, intellectual, and emotional dimensions, enriching personal, relational, professional, and social aspects of life. Accessible to all, DIP has evolved from 30 years of artistic and explorational research in over 50 countries, continuously shaped by scientific and philosophical inquiry. Through performances, workshops, presentations, and retreats, this vision has inspired and engaged tens of thousands of individuals worldwide. Click for YouTube Channel   At its core, DIP is based on the principle that each individual is an artist, actively shaping their own life into a meaningful and evolving creation. With this perspective, we continually seek effective tools for self-development and refinement. In DIPTEP, whirling is taught as an contemporary instrument for transformation. This program, grounded in practice-based learning, trust & transparency, and mindful exploration, encourages participants to engage critically and apply knowledge with clarity and purpose.   Core Data: The Foundation of DIPTEP   The Core Data phase forms the first year of the two-year DIPTEP journey. It is focusing on theory, technique, and embodied experience. Key areas of exploration include: Fundamental Laws of Whirling Physics: Understanding the multi-directional forces at play in whirling, including balance, gravity, momentum, and energy distribution. The DIP Equation: A structured methodology encompassing Data Collection (perceptual awareness), Application (functional movement), and Mastery (sustained whirling competency). Navigation In Whirling: Developing kinesthetic intelligence through the navigation of body, emotions, and cognitive processes in motion. Anatomy & Body Analysis: Cultivating physical efficiency, alignment, and sustainability in movement through anatomical awareness and biomechanical optimization. The DIP Whirling Session: A structured framework including preparation, takeoff, free whirling flow, controlled landing, and reintegration in stillness. Interdisciplinary Insights: Exploring whirling through historical, scientific, philosophical, psychological and artistic perspectives, expanding its relevance across multiple disciplines.   Structured in 3 progressive modules: 1st Module: 21–27 September 2026, Agios Lavrentios / Greece 2nd Module: Online (dates to be announced) 3rd Module: 8–15 June 2027, Agios Lavrentios / Greece   First Module   This first module is designed to give participants a clear and practical understanding of how whirling works, why it is possible, and what is the real reason of practicing it. It explores not only the mechanics of turning but also how it can be approached as an accessible and sustainable practice. It is an intensive in-person training, offering a structured combination of physical exploration, theoretical insight, and reflective engagement. In this first module, participants follow a carefully designed 7 DIP Days that ensures both conceptual understanding and hands-on experience.   Daily Structure & Learning Phases   Each DIP Day is a full training unit, consisting of 3 hours of whirling practice alongside preparatory, theoretical, and reflective elements. This structured progression allows for a gradual yet deepening engagement with the practice. DIPasana: The days begin with a mindful walk, encouraging spatial awareness, breathing, and grounding. DIPup: A structured warm-up and activation phase, integrating body check-ins, stretching, breathwork, and strength-building exercises to enhance flexibility and readiness. Theory & Practice: To explore key DIP concepts, blending knowledge with direct application: Mastering the mechanics of whirling – refining balance, velocity control, and proprioception. Exploring the skirts – understanding flow dynamics, energy distribution, and fabric interaction. Whirling in pairs and groups – developing coordination, rhythm, and spatial and relational awareness within collective movement. DIP Sessions: A structured whirling segment, extending focus, endurance, and meditative immersion in motion. DIPback: The days conclude with a feedback sessions, creating space for debriefing, discussion, and personal insights.   In this 7 DIP Days (21 whirling hours) first module, we will lay the foundation for mastering whirling by developing essential movement techniques, refining self-guidance, deepening body awareness, and integrating a strong theoretical framework—ensuring a comprehensive and transformative learning experience.   Second Module   This phase focuses on Interdisciplinary Insights, covering historical, scientific, philosophical, and artistic perspectives on whirling. It involves theoretical deepening, guided self-practice, and analytical discussion, allowing participants to expand their understanding beyond physical movement. It will run in October/November with 4 weekly Zoom meetings. Each session includes 3 hours of spinning homework, totaling 4 DIP Days (12 whirling hours).   Third Module   Aims to reinforce and consolidate all learned DIP theory and practice, leading to a final immersive experience that integrates movement, comprehension, and transformation. This module concludes the first year (CORE DATA) with a self-evaluation exam, titled “Self-Assessment Examination.” It will span 7 DIP Days (21 whirling hours).   Graduation: Obtaining Core Data Certification To obtain the DIPTEP Core Data Certification (Year-1), participants must: Complete all 3 modules Complete 30 DIP Days (90 whirling hours) Pass the final “Self-Assessment Examination” DIPTEP includes 18 DIP days (54 whirling hours). Missing 12 DIP days (36 whirling hours) can be recovered through DIP workshops or retreats, with a 30% discount for certification requirements.   Location Agios Lavrentios (Pelion) — near Volos, Greece Accommodation Options (For The First & Third Modules) Participants are welcome to arrange their own accommodation. Agios Lavrentios offers a range of local guesthouses and Pelion-style stays. After securing your spot, we will share a curated list of recommended options within walking distance of the training venue.   Contact & Reservation   For contact, reservation, and guidance, please reach us via the official DIPTEP communication Page or the registration form linked in this document/announcement.   PAYMENT TERMS   The Core Data year consists of 3 modules, scheduled at different times, delivered in both in-person and online formats. To accommodate different financial situations, we offer multiple payment options: - Pay Per Module: Payment is made separately for each module before it begins. Suitable for those who prefer to pay in installments. One-Time Payment (Full Payment): A discounted fee for paying the entire year upfront. Ensures participation in all three modules without further transactions.   The program is limited to 30 participants. Early registration is recommended. One-third of the places are reserved for those needing financial support, artists, and students. Applicants for these supported places are invited to a short interview and asked to send a brief biography and a short statement via our official DIP channels. If you need guidance in your decision-making process, you can request an online consultation through the guidance link included in our communications.

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28.09.26-04.10.26 | 5-15.06.2027

DIPTEP – Formation (Year 2)

DERVISH IN PROGRESS TEACHER EDUCATION PROGRAM DIPTEP – Formation (Year 2)   “A DIP Instructor is a conscious driver—holding space, sensing shifts, and guiding transformation. FORMATION supports dedicated whirlers in becoming guides, able to lead others into the vast unknown and back to a deeper sense of self.”   Overview   The second year of the Dervish-in Progress Teacher Education Program (DIPTEP) is titled Formation.   While the first year, Core Data, focuses on foundational knowledge, bodily awareness, and mental-emotional alignment, Formation is the year of application, embodiment, and integration. It is designed to deepen the practitioner's mastery and expand awareness through whirling practice and its transformative language.   Graduates of Core Data are warmly encouraged to continue with this second year—not only for the possibility of becoming DIP instructors, but also to enter more deeply into the unseen dimensions revealed through spinning. Each headline of the Formation program opens a new portal into understanding the self, the unknown, and the transformative intelligence of movement.   Those who have not completed Core Data but already hold substantial experience in spinning and its transformative nature are also welcome to apply. To ensure readiness before September 2026, one-on-one online sessions are available to cover the theoretical content of Core Data. Further details can be requested via email at dervishinprogress@gmail.com or by WhatsApp at +43 660 5860 660.   Formation is open to all who feel called by the spinning path and are willing to deepen their journey.   Participation Prerequisites   • Completion of DIPTEP Core Data. • Ongoing engagement in some form of personal development or physical discipline since graduating from Core Data, such as dance, movement practice, therapy, meditation, martial arts, or somatic training.   For Experienced Whirlers Without Core Data Graduation   Whirlers who have not completed the first year, Core Data, but are deeply familiar with spinning practice and its transformative qualities may also be accepted into Formation. • A short biography and a brief statement of motivation must be submitted to dervishinprogress@gmail.com. • A short online interview will be arranged after the initial contact. • In order to prepare adequately, candidates without a Core Data Certificate must complete the Core Data theory through one-on-one online classes before September 2026. These private sessions are designed to provide the foundational understanding necessary to integrate the teachings of Formation and to become eligible for certification.   The Nine Vectors of Transformation   These foundational components guide the multidimensional architecture of the DIP Formation journey, bridging body, mind, and spirit. Graduates of Formation will be able to work with these vectors while designing and facilitating their own whirling courses and sessions. 1. THE SUBJECT → The Somatic Principle The living method of DIP, in which the body becomes a field of dialogue with natural forces—unlocking perception, embodiment, and inner data through gravitational and energetic interplay. 2. THE INSTRUCTOR → The Conscious Facilitator A calibrated presence who integrates theory and practice. Through empathic leadership, the facilitator becomes a resonant guide, activating transformation through structured insight and energetic clarity. 3. THE GROUP → The Collective Field A dynamic constellation of individuals forming a shared morphic field. The group becomes a social vessel for personal transformation, where resonance, mirroring, and co-regulation unfold through silence, structure, and shared experience. 4. THE SPACE → The Sacred Container A physical and energetic architecture in which movement becomes sacred. Spatial neutrality, harmony, and openness allow expanded states of awareness and ritualised embodiment to emerge. 5. THE TIME → The Temporal Flow Time understood as a non-linear dimension—structured yet fluid. Sessions are aligned with natural rhythms, allowing deep integration through intentional phases of initiation, expansion, and closure. 6. THE COMPLETERS → The Energetic Catalysts Functional and symbolic tools that support the continuity of experience. Props, garments, and technology act as enhancers—grounding the journey while expanding the sensory field. 7. THE MUSIC → The Sonic Architecture Organised sound as a carrier of emotion, rhythm, and memory. Music functions as a temporal bridge, guiding participants through shifts of frequency, atmosphere, and emotional landscape. 8. THE SESSION → The Transformational Arc A choreographed sequence of energetic phases—from activation to surrender, from intensity to stillness. The session becomes a journey through layers of self: embodied, symbolic, and spiritual. 9. THE CLOSURE → The Integrative Descent The descent into stillness, where insight crystallises. Closure grounds the invisible into the visible, anchoring transformation through rest, reflection, and reconnection.   Certification Requirements   Participants who wish to receive official certification as a DIP Instructor upon completing the Formation year must meet the following criteria:   • Completion of all three modules, totalling 18 DIP Days / 54 whirling hours. • Accumulation of an additional 12 DIP Days / 36 whirling hours through participation in other DIP workshops or retreats. A 30% discount will be offered to those collecting hours toward certification. • This brings the full certification requirement to 30 DIP Days / 90 whirling hours. • Successful completion of a Final Self-Assessment Examination, evaluating both personal integration and readiness to teach.   Structure of the Program     Location   Agios Lavrentios, Greece Click here to read more about the village.     Accommodation Options (for the First and Third Modules) Participants are welcome to arrange their own accommodation. We will advise participants on several accommodation options. If a group booking package becomes available, we expect to share this information in the coming period. As soon as there is an update, all approved applicants will be informed by email.   Payment Terms • Pay Per Module: Although participation in all three modules is required for certification, payments may be made separately before each module. • One-Time Full Payment: A discounted rate is available for those who choose to pay the entire program fee upfront.   Program Fees   The program is limited to 20 participants. Early registration is strongly recommended. One-third of the places are reserved for those in need of financial support, artists, and students. Applicants for these 6 places must complete an interview and apply via dervishinprogress@gmail.com with a short biography and a brief statement of motivation. For questions or support in your decision-making process, guidance is available through the designated online support link.     Payment and Registration   1. Fill in the Application Form: Start by completing the application form provided on our website. Please ensure that all required fields are filled in accurately. 2. Wait for Approval Email: Once your application has been reviewed, you will receive an approval email confirming your acceptance and including an online payment link. 3. Make Your Payment: Use the payment link provided in the email to pay the €200 deposit securely by credit or debit card, or transfer the deposit directly to the bank account details provided. 4. Confirmation: After your payment has been processed, you will receive a confirmation email with the details of your successful enrolment.   If you encounter any difficulties during the process, please feel free to contact us for assistance.   Production Managers   Eleni Voyiatzidou & Alexandros Seitaridis Fortunati Art & Tech Co.   We look forward to welcoming you to Agios Lavrentios.     Conclusion The Formation year supports the alchemy between inner potential and physical expression. It is intended for those who are ready to evolve through movement—not only as dancers or future teachers, but as curious human beings willing to witness what spinning can reveal.   “Fly to make them fly. Spin to make them see. Be the driver of your own invisible vastness.”   Registration Form Link  

DETAIL

18.04.2026 - 19.04.2026

DIP Madrid Whirling Workshop

Date: April 18 – 19, 2026 Location: Aarón Vivancos Talent Center (Av.de Valdelaparra, 63, 28108 Alcobendas)   Dervish in Progress (DIP) is a unique methodology that supports transformation on physical, mental, and spiritual levels. Inspired by the Sufi whirling (sema) tradition, this approach integrates contemporary bodywork, inviting individuals to explore and transcend themselves through the temporal, spatial, vital, and cognitive dimensions. This practice is not only a form of movement; it is also a way of insight, a leap in awareness, and a means of collective healing. Developed by Ziya Azazi and practiced in over 35 countries across hundreds of workshops during the past 20 years, Dervish in Progress invites participants to move beyond their inner cycles toward the creative potential of collective transformation. These annual workshops in Madrid are no longer just events; they are invitations, to remember, to awaken, and to engage with life more consciously and creatively. This continuity represents not only an educational commitment but also a cultural and spiritual solidarity. With each passing year, the DIP community grows, turning Madrid into a center of transformation. This is not merely a workshop in a city, but an expression of universal remembrance, human evolution, and shared becoming. This ongoing process exists thanks to those who believe in it. Eva, Aida, and Alfonso’s dedicated work, their strong faith in Dervish in Progress, and their contributions at every stage form the foundation that sustains this journey. Through their support, this workshop becomes not only a meeting guided by Ziya Azazi but a shared experience of community and presence. This gathering is not only about personal growth. It is a call to all who lead, guide, and influence, to take responsibility and move beyond the primitive “hunter-gatherer” reflex still driving many minds today. The urge to possess, accumulate, and control no longer serves the spirit of this age; it merely reflects the fear that limits our bodies. Transformation requires courage, the courage to face inner stillness, to accept change, and to share energy through love. This workshop is not about physical technique alone; it is a space where movement, intention, and heart converge. Everyone who chooses to generate their own energy, to understand themselves, and to serve humanity is part of this field.   This weekend offers a full journey — starting with the basics of the Whirling Equation for newcomers and those refreshing their practice. We then move into deep group sessions focusing on rhythm, awareness, and shared transformation. On Sunday, we explore the skirts, practice Dervish Tango, and receive feedback through body analysis. You can join individual modules, but the full program offers the deepest impact.   “Whirling is not just a movement; it is a cell awakening, a mind clearing, and a being reborn.” Ziya Azazi     Participation Just Saturday morning: 90 € Just Saturday afternoon: 100 € Sunday: 120 € Early Bird: 230 € (until March 1) Two full days: 260 € DIP Community: 220 €     Modular Participation Options   Reservation and Payment Spanish information, group discounts, and reservations: www.evamonro.com/ziyaenmadrid For all other payments: Please click the payment button to complete your registration.

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1.05.2026 - 3.05.2026

Dervish in Progress Returns to Belgium

May 1 to 3, 2026, Transforming Through Whirling   “Whirling is not an escape from life, it is a way of returning to yourself, again and again.” — Dervish in Progress   After the beautiful energy of our fully booked March workshop, we are very pleased to return to Belgium from May 1 to 3 with a new gathering. This continuation is made possible thanks to the dedication of Eva Zabarylo, founder and director of Compagnie Bougie, and the warm cooperation of my dear friend Karlien Buysse, a whirler and instructor whose clarity, sensitivity and artistic approach I deeply appreciate. I am grateful to collaborate with her in this shared effort to support all who feel connected to whirling.   At the heart of Dervish in Progress lies a simple intention: to support anyone who loves whirling, regardless of tradition, background or style. Traditional, contemporary, experimental or meditative, every colour of whirling is welcome. Many people whirl in their own way and sometimes feel they are missing certain tools or clarity. Dervish in Progress exists to serve this need by offering structure, refinement and understanding. This second workshop invites everyone who is curious, passionate or seeking depth to come together in one shared space.   “Each workshop is a meeting point of body, emotion and mind and of people who choose to grow together.” — Dervish in Progress This May gathering welcomes both newcomers and experienced whirlers. Those who could not join us in March are invited to begin here, and those wishing to refine their practice will find space to explore advanced elements and to connect more consciously with the inner architecture of the whirling body.   Dervish in Progress is a practice of listening: to breath, to balance, to the subtle forces that organise movement. Through this listening the body rises and expands while the centre remains steady and awake. Beyond the physical foundation, body, emotion and mind begin to move as interconnected wheels, forming a single harmony that transforms whirling into a state of presence. “The more we whirl, the more we understand that transformation is not sudden, it is layered, continuous and shared.” — Dervish in Progress   Through this practice we discover the internal design of the whirling body: how posture, breath and inner spaciousness organise movement, how resistance softens, and how clarity becomes possible. Whirling then becomes lighter, freer and more spacious, speaking directly to the deeper layers of our being. “Whether it is your first whirl or your hundredth, the centre you seek is the same. It is steady, silent and always waiting for you.” — Dervish in Progress   Dervish in Progress is both art and awareness, discipline and openness. It grounds the body, softens the heart and clarifies the mind. What begins as technique becomes a doorway to a more present and courageous way of engaging with life. “We return to Belgium not to repeat what we know but to open new doors each time, to refine, to soften and to expand.” — Dervish in Progress   Workshop Schedule Friday, 1 May 2026 19:00 to 22:00 Foundations for newcomers and a space for experienced whirlers to refresh and reconnect with the essentials. Saturday, 2 May 2026 12:00 to 18:00 Integration for newcomers and focused development for practitioners with experience. Sunday, 3 May 2026 10:00 to 16:00 Deepening work for all participants with both foundational and advanced explorations. Total: 15 hours of guided practice, discovery and shared understanding. On Saturday and Sunday the whole group practices together. Newcomers receive step by step support. Experienced whirlers refine advanced aspects including skirt techniques, paired whirling approaches often referred to as Dervish Tango, acceleration and deceleration organisation and detailed question and answer sessions for the fine mechanics of whirling.   Prices Early Bird prices valid until 31 December. After this date a fifteen percent increase applies. Full Rate: 290 € Support Rate: 260 € Whirling Community: 250 € Two Days: 220 € One Day: 130 € Beginners must start on Friday. If a beginner can only join from Saturday, they must book a one hour individual session with Ziya Azazi on Saturday before entering the group at a cost of 90 €. Experienced whirlers may attend one or two days if they already know the fundamentals.   Venue Compagnie Bougie Brusselsesteenweg 265 9090 Merelbeke Melle, Belgium www.compagniebougie.be   Contact and Information Karlien Buysse — karlien@niya.be Eva Zabarylo — eva@compagniebougie.be “Whirl your body to move your heart and switch your mind.” — Dervish in Progress

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13.06.2026 - 21.06.2026

International DIP Masterclass Residency

Agios Lavrentios · Mt. Pelion · Greece 13 – 21 June 2026   An Invitation to Transform   “Don’t be satisfied with stories, how things have gone with others. Unfold your own myth.” Rumi   Each June, we return to the village of Agios Lavrentios with growing excitement to gather around the practice of Whirling. This masterclass is becoming a yearly meeting point for those who already know this path, those who have learned to whirl, who enjoy whirling, and who feel ready to deepen their experience within the whirling world.   Set on the slopes of Mt. Pelion, surrounded by nature, silence, and history, this residency offers a focused and grounded space to slow down, listen, and refine. It is not an introduction, but an invitation to go further: to expand perception, to enrich embodied knowledge, and to experience whirling as a living, evolving practice.   Here, we whirl in order to transform. Through whirling, we strengthen physical awareness, emotional clarity, and artistic expression. This residency embraces a community of practitioners who are curious, committed, and eager to discover new layers, within themselves and within the practice.   If you feel at home in the world of whirling and wish to deepen your journey, you are warmly welcome.   “The moment you change your perception is the moment you rewrite the chemistry of your body.” Dr. Bruce Lipton   About the Masterclass   The International Dervish in Progress (DIP) Masterclass Residency is led by Ziya Azazi, founder of Dervish in Progress (DIP), and takes place from 13 to 21 June 2026 in Agios Lavrentios, Greece.   This 60-hour immersive masterclass is designed for participants who are already familiar with basic DIP terminology and who have prior experience in whirling. The focus is on deepening, refining, and integrating; physically, mentally, and artistically.   Organized in collaboration with Alexandros Seitaridis, Eleni Voyiatzidou, and Fortunati Art & Tech Company, the residency offers a concentrated environment for self-exploration, artistic growth, and shared experience.   Program Highlights   • Morning hikes & body preparation: Gentle hikes, mindfulness practices, stretching, and strength work in the natural landscape of Agios Lavrentios. • Dervish Tango: A unique exploration where traditional whirling meets tango, focusing on flow, grounding, and dynamic relationships. • Exploring the Skirts: Practical and symbolic work with skirts, enriching both technique and perception. • Performing DIP: Development of performance presence, combining precision, clarity, and personal storytelling. • Daily masterclass sessions: Two sessions per day—one focused on practical application and one dedicated to deeper experiential exploration. • Personal guidance: Space for questions, feedback, and individual refinement throughout the process. • Daily refreshments: Tea, coffee, soft drinks, and small treats to support energy and focus.   About the Residency – Accommodation & Breakfast   Participants will stay together for 8 nights in a charming old house located in the village of Agios Lavrentios. Living together under one roof is an essential part of the residency, supporting a strong sense of community, care, and shared responsibility.   The house includes shared rooms with sufficient beds, four bathrooms (three with showers), a common dining area, a shared rest space, a kitchen with fridge and mini oven, and a washing machine for participants’ use.   Breakfast is a shared, communal practice. Ingredients are provided and shared equally, and everyone is invited to contribute in simple ways, creating a nourishing and cooperative start to each day.   Essential Details   Dates: 13 – 21 June 2026 Check-in: 13 June at 6:00 PM Check-out: 21 June at 11:00 AM   Fee: €750 (includes VAT, accommodation, breakfast, and full training) Early Bird: €690 (valid until 13 February 2026)   Booking Deadline: 13 May 2026 Places: Maximum 16 participants Deposit: €150 (non-refundable)   Payment & Registration   Participants are invited to complete the application form on our website. After review, an approval email with payment details will be sent. A deposit of €150 confirms the place. Once payment is received, enrollment is confirmed by email.   Production & Organization   Eleni Voyiatzidou & Alexandros Seitaridis Fortunati Art & Tech Company

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04.07.2026 - 05.07.2026

Whirling at the Alpine Threshold

4–5 July 2026 | Saturday–Sunday Innsbruck | Austria   Für die deutsche Version klicken Sie hier.   Innsbruck takes its name from a bridge over the River Inn. For centuries, it has been a meeting point and a passageway—a natural threshold between north and south. This two‑day gathering brings that same idea into the body: building an inner bridge while the outer world keeps flowing—between speed and calm, strength and softness, direction and center.   After our first Innsbruck gathering in June 2022, some friends from this city brought turning into their daily lives and grew their own paths through steady practice. Now, with a new invitation from the same region, we meet again in Innsbruck this July.   What is whirling?   Turning is, in the simplest sense, the body moving around its own axis. Yet the practice is more than simply “spinning.” It trains you to collect your attention, keep your breath in flow, and let your weight settle into the ground. From the outside it may look like speed, but the real aim is not speed—it is staying centered even while you move. That is why turning can help organize the body, quiet emotional noise, and sharpen awareness.   How does the workshop work?   The workshop is designed step by step, with new participants fully in mind. We begin by establishing a safe physical order: posture, weight transfer, reducing unnecessary load in the joints, length through the spine, and a breath that finds its place. Then, through small and controlled turns, we explore the relationship between direction, focus, and rhythm. Acceleration and deceleration are taught gradually. The goal is not to become “perfect” quickly, but to build a foundation you can continue at your own pace. Across the two days, practice blocks, rest, and recovery are balanced carefully.   The Dervish in Progress approach   Dervish in Progress sees turning not as a stage trick and not as a fixed form, but as a learning language that can be applied to contemporary life. At its heart is sustainability: reducing unnecessary tension, protecting the body’s natural alignment, expanding the breath, and using energy efficiently. The practice offers a clear frame: weight that lands, an open ribcage, a relaxed neck, a lively focus, and the ability to make clean decisions in motion. It is inspired by the historical memory of turning, yet it does not squeeze anyone into an identity. Instead, it leaves space for each participant to make meaning through their own body and their own life. This creates an environment that is both accessible and open to real depth, for every level.   Who is Ziya Azazi?   Ziya Azazi is a performing artist and teacher who explores turning as a contemporary stage language and as a practice of awareness. Over many years, he has shared turning through performances, workshops, and training processes in different countries, and out of this experience he developed the Dervish in Progress approach. Today the aim is simple and clear: to bring turning into people’s lives as a safe, practical, and sustainable tool. This two‑day Innsbruck gathering is part of that journey—an open door for newcomers and a space of refinement for those who have practiced before.   Schedule   Saturday, 4 July 2026: 11:00–17:00 (6 hours) Sunday, 5 July 2026: 10:00–16:00 (6 hours)   Location   USI - Innsbruck Fürstenweg 185 6020, Innsbrucks/AT (Halle Nr: 50)   Fees   Standard: 250 EUR Early Bird (until 28 February 2026): 220 EUR DIP family and DIPTEP participants: 200 EUR   Registration and information   For registration and general information, please visit dervishinprogress.com. For local organization and detailed information, please contact our dear friend & host Helga Jenewein. Helga Jenewein WhatsApp: +43 699 12903687 Email: helga.jenewein@icloud.com

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17.07.2026 - 19.07.2026

Whirl To Transformation | DIP Returns to Istanbul

Date Change for the Istanbul Workshop July 17–18–19, 2026     IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT We originally planned this gathering for the end of February. However, our host venue, Be Health Universe, has unexpectedly had to begin urgent renovation/renewal work, which means the studio will not be available on those dates. In addition, due to the Dervish in Progress team’s European program and a full calendar, the nearest shared time we can devote to Istanbul is now confirmed as July 17–18–19, 2026. We kindly ask for your understanding regarding this necessary change, and we sincerely look forward to meeting again in July, with the same intention, the same desire, and the same joy of sharing.   New Dates, Same Excitement | Workshop Information “A true wise one knows that enlightenment is not a goal, but a meaning. The greatest gift you can give yourself is your own transformation.” Lao Tzu   This invitation carries the excitement of opening space for curious minds and kindred spirits who choose to meet in Istanbul. In Türkiye, spinning is often associated with the Mevlevi tradition and known through its historical narrative; yet at its core, it is both an instrument of Sufism and a universal practice that appears at the heart of many spiritual lineages.   The DIP (Dervish in Progress) vision continues to grow through 30 years of artistic experience across 50 countries, and through an ongoing scientific and spiritual search. Performances, workshops, and retreats shaped by this vision have brought tens of thousands of people together worldwide. With this event, we invite you to join this journey of transformation.   Guided by Ziya Azazi, an artist and teacher who has been sharing spinning worldwide with a strong sense of responsibility for about 25 years, this workshop aims to hold space for the needs and questions of those who wish to deepen, while also offering a safe, clear, step-by-step roadmap for those taking their first steps into turning.   Spinning is not only movement; it can work like a pathway toward awakening. Rhythmic turning brings balance, focus, and breath onto the same axis, creating a learning field that supports the nervous system’s capacity to adapt (neuroplasticity). This is why, in DIP, technique is not tied to a goal, but to awareness and transformation.   Throughout the workshop, we work through DIP’s core terminology and practice principles. Mechanics such as axis, gravity, friction, inner pressure, the center–periphery relationship, and safe acceleration are explored alongside physical endurance, mental clarity, and emotional regulation. Through the cycle of Learn–Implement–Become, spinning goes beyond a skill and becomes a centering practice that can be carried into everyday life.   At the heart of the guidance is a safe and sustainable learning line, maximum extension, minimum stress, and maximum breath. By the end of three days, participants gain a clearer map of both the physical and inner layers of spinning.   Event Details Venue: Be Health Universe (Metro City Mall, Social Floor, Gym) Address: Esentepe Mahallesi, Büyükdere Caddesi, No 171/1, Istanbul/TR   Dates and Hours Deposit: 90 € (non-refundable) Early Bird (2 days): 170 € (until March 15) Early Bird (3 days): 225 € (until March 15) Regular (2 days): 190 € Regular (3 days): 250 € DIP Community (2 days): 170 € DIP Community  (3 days): 225 €   Who Can Participate & Important Note The workshop is open to everyone aged 18 and above; no previous spinning experience is required. Beginners must attend starting from Friday. For this reason, joining all three days is strongly recommended to fully experience the intention of the workshop.   What to Bring Comfortable clothes, a spare T-shirt, a towel, thick socks, slippers, or shoes suitable for spinning.   Booking & Payment You can reserve your place by clicking the payment button. As an alternative payment method, you may also pay at the Be Health Universe reception or via bank transfer to the account below.   HANCROSS SPOR VE TURİZM HİZMETLERİ ANONİM ŞİRKETİ IBAN: TR080006701000000058644990 SWIFT Code (EUR, USD): YAPITRISXXX   More Information Be Health Universe: Reception: 0212 344 07 07 WhatsApp: +90 549 465 34 97 be@behealthuniverse.com   Dervish in Progress Team: DIP WhatsApp: +43 660 5860660 dervishinprogress@gmail.com www.dervishinprogress.com   “We have this one life to appreciate the grand design of the universe, and for that I am extremely grateful.” Stephen Hawking

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22.07.2025 - 26.07.2025

DIP Bohemia Retreat

Nenačovice / Prague · Czech Republic 22–26 July 2026   Klikněte zde pro češtinu.   An Invitation to Transformation   Sometimes what we need is not more speed, but more clarity, more silence, and a more refined attention. The Dervish in Progress practice gathers the body around an axis while expanding perception at the same time: it opens a living field of work where weight, breath, direction, balance, and decision intertwine.   This retreat proposes that work as a real space of freedom, without confining it only to studio hours. In this special location where we will live together 24/7 from 22–26 July, our studio practice and the rest of the day will nourish each other: we practice together during the working hours, and outside the studio we rest and renew—freely, together.   The place makes this possible: next to our large studio there is a garden, and in the garden a small private pond. As we are in the summer season, in the free hours outside the studio schedule, those who wish can swim, sunbathe, or simply rest in silence and gather themselves. The heart of this retreat beats here: after focused work, to simplify together in the same safe space, soften the body, hear intuition again, and return refreshed.   The spirit of “bohemian” describes this well. A bohemian perspective means living a little more simply; loosening rigid forms; and staying closer to nature, art, creation, and community. Here we do not use “bohemian” as a label, but as an atmosphere: in a safe space, living together in nature, with transparency, care, and freedom—finding a simpler rhythm. That rhythm grows with the practice: disciplined work in the studio, and free breathing outside the studio. In this way the body becomes more fluid, the mind clearer, and the whirling practice goes deeper.   What is Dervish in Progress? Dervish in Progress (DIP) is a method that approaches the whirling practice in a contemporary language, training body, mind, and emotion together. Its core idea is simple: whirling is not only a movement; when structured well, it reorganizes perception. How we build balance, how we relate to breath, how we meet gravity, our sense of direction, and our attention become more visible during whirling. This visibility offers a chance to know oneself and to reorganize.   For this reason, DIP is both tangible and deep. On one side there is physics and body mechanics: the centre–periphery relationship, weight transfer, friction, acceleration, rhythm, coordination. On the other side there is the inner world: emotional clarity, mental calm, intuition, a search for meaning. DIP does not separate these two domains; it trains them together. This approach is practiced in different formats: performances, workshops, retreats, masterclasses… And in the longer term, with DIPTEP (Dervish in Progress Teacher Education Program), the teaching dimension of the method becomes a structured educational pathway.   Who is Ziya Azazi? Ziya Azazi is an internationally recognized performing artist, choreographer, teacher, and the founder of the Dervish in Progress (DIP) method. His stage work re-shapes the aesthetic power of whirling through a contemporary language, while his pedagogical work translates the practice into a learning system that can be carried into different bodies, different experiences, and different life contexts.   Over the years, Ziya Azazi has shared DIP within a wide international network; he has taught in 35 countries and performed in 55 countries. This rich experience nourishes both the artistic and the pedagogical sides of DIP. In his approach, whirling is not merely “a form to be taught”; it is a skill that matures through regular practice, a field of research, and a discipline of awareness.   About the Retreat The DIP Retreat in Bohemia will take place for the first time in the Czech Republic on 22–26 July 2026, and it is shaped by the nature-connected conditions of Dancing Centre Lorien—a place that truly supports living together.   During the studio hours, we practice together. Outside the working hours, we rest in the garden, cool down in the pond, sunbathe, share meals, and share the same space. In this way the practice becomes not only something that happens “in class”, but a maturation process that spreads across the entire day. While strengthening the sense of community, this structure naturally builds two essential grounds for transformation: trust and transparency. When these are present, the body listens better, the mind becomes clearer, and emotions become more fluid and constructive. This retreat offers a modest setting, yet a framework that genuinely makes deepening possible.   Travel Dancing Centre Lorien is approximately 25 km from Prague Airport. From the airport, arriving by taxi is easy; the cost is expected to be around 20–30 EUR. For those who prefer public transport, traveling toward Nenačovice is an effective solution. Alternatively, you can travel to the nearby town of Loděnice; for participants arriving in Loděnice, a transfer to the retreat location can be organized.   Petra and our hosts will support you with travel and logistics (details are listed below).   Accommodation Participants can choose accommodation according to their needs. We offer four main options: Staying in the studio (on a mattress) – the most economical option: You can stay in studio conditions on mattresses provided by the hosts. This option strengthens the feeling of living together. Please bring your own sleeping bag and pillow. Camping – staying in your own tent: Remember to bring your tent and be ready to stay outside in camping conditions. A sleeping bag, mat  and pillow are recommended. “Yurt tent” (a large shared yurt) – limited capacity: The hosts’ yurt tent has space for up to 4 people. Please bring your own sleeping bag and pillow. Airbnb (more comfort): Airbnb options can be considered in the residential area around 10 km from the centre. For this option, participants organize the booking themselves.   Fees (Fees include retreat tuition, accommodation, three meals per day) (coffee/tea and snacks during the day for a small fee) ​Deposit: 150 € (non-refundable) Early Bird (off-site): 400 € (until March 1) Early Bird (studio/camping): 410 € (until March 1) Early Bird (yurt): 440 € (until March 1) Regular (off-site): 440 € Regular (studio/camping): 460 € Regular (yurt): 490 €   Dates & Program Framework 22–26 July 2026 (Wednesday–Sunday) 22 July, Wednesday: Afternoon arrival and settling in. Around 16:00, an opening circle. 23–25 July, Thursday–Saturday: The backbone of each day: Early morning: a short silent sit in the garden (contact with nature, breath, simplicity). Then DIPup (a “check-up” to wake the body physically, emotionally, and mentally—stretching and revitalizing). During the day: theory + practice (the mechanics of whirling and its practical principles). End of the day: a long DIP whirling session to complete the day. Breaks for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and rest. Our garden/pond freedom—shared open time outside the studio schedule. 26 July, Sunday: After lunch, our retreat concludes.   Note: The detailed daily timetable will be shared with participants before the retreat.   Location Dancing Centre Lorien Address: Nenačovice 80, 266 01 Nenačovice, Czech Republic Info page: https://www.facebook.com/tvorivylorien     Contact & Logistics For all questions about travel, accommodation, and logistics, you can contact: Petra Lammas Web: www.petralammas.cz Phone / WhatsApp: +420 777 217 584 e-mail: petralammas@centrum.cz    

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Past Events

You can access the PDF files containing the list of events Ziya Azazi has performed in previous years through the following links:   To access our current event lists and register, you can use the 'BOOKING NOW' button.   Past Events in 2023  Past Events in 2024 Past Event in 2025

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